We describe Pennsylvania's Commercial Manure Hauler and Broker Certification Program and discuss results of an industry survey. Survey knowledge questions were centered on state-mandated program competencies designed to minimize environmental losses of manure nutrients. Survey results demonstrated that participation in state-directed,…

The study investigated confidence levels of 51 pre-service teachers through a Likert-like survey and open-ended questions. Participants were early childhood -- special education and middle level education initial teacher certification program candidates enrolled in both traditional and Professional Development School (PDS) placement models at a…

A study described the instructional practices and perceptions of K-8 keyboarding instructors in Pennsylvania public schools regarding keyboarding practices. Surveys were sent to 501 school districts, with responses from 416 (83 percent). The surveys contained 19 questions that provided descriptive information about instructional practices and 17…

The history and rationale for entry and exit tests devised to meet Pennsylvania's standards for certifying foreign language teachers are outlined and discussed. The involvement of the Educational Testing Service in developing and validating tests in a variety of subject areas is described, and the need for institutional rather than standardized…

A study determined the effectiveness of Pennsylvania professional development centers in the preparation of vocational teachers. The study used the perceptions of participants to ascertain the effectiveness in the various activities for which the centers receive state and federal funds. Vocational teachers responded to questions about nine center…